As a result of two powerful hurricanes hitting close to us
recently we are all taking recommendations to prepare for storms far
more seriously than we have in the past. As you make your plans,
remember there are things that need to be done to prepare the landscape
for the possibility of a storm and things to do when a storm threatens.
Trees with trunks that show significant decay and threaten a
home or other important structure should be removed - even if they made
it through hurricanes Katrina or Rita. Trees that are leaning
significantly also should be evaluated for possible removal. Remember,
too, that large trees can impact more than just your property, so you
should consider how your trees might affect neighboring properties as
well as your own.
In addition, look for branches that hang over the house near the
roof. These branches may not be touching the roof under normal
conditions but high winds of violent storms or hurricanes can cause
trees to bend and branches to flail around considerably. These branches
can cause extensive damage to the roof and generally should be removed.
Normally it is best to have this kind of work done by a
professional like a licensed arborist. Arborists are trained individuals
who make a career of caring for the urban forest. Some arborists are
self-employed, while others work for tree-care companies, municipalities
or public parks. The areas in which arborists can help you include
planting, transplanting, pruning, fertilizing, pest management, tree
removal, value appraisals and protecting trees during construction. For
the name of a licenced arborist go to http://www.natlarb.com/ and type
in your zip code to get a list for your area.
You should also consider staking young trees, those planted in
the past few years, since they can be easily blown over by high winds.
This will save work straightening and supporting them after a storm.
If it looks like a hurricane is likely to head your way, secure
loose objects in the landscape. Look around your grounds for container
plants, hanging baskets, tools, lawn furniture (including porch swings),
toys, bicycles, bird feeders, wind chimes, barbecue grills, playhouses
and doghouses. These items can become destructive missiles during high
winds and should be stored in garages or sheds or anchored securely in
place.
For those of you that like to organize, you may want to make a
list, well before a hurricane threatens, of those things that need to be
tied down or brought inside, and where to put them. Buy the necessary
equipment to secure everything and try to determine how long it will
take to secure things. You can make these lists part of your family’s
emergency plan.
Pesticides and motor fuels should be stored in areas that are
secure and higher than potential flood waters. These products can be
hazardous if flood waters spread them through your home or they make
there way to creeks or bayous.
As you make your plans for how to get ready for an approaching
hurricane, prioritize what you need to do so important tasks are done
first. If your area is put under a hurricane watch, begin to do what is
needed to prepare your landscape for the storm. Keep in mind you won’t
have time to focus on your landscape once a hurricane warning is
announced, and you certainly won’t have time for it if an evacuation
Is called for.
For more information on preparing for a hurricane check out the
Texas Cooperative Extension Disaster Preparedness web site :
http://texashelp.tamu.edu/.

Don’t forget to send your garden questions to Plant Answers at
9020 FM 1484, Conroe TX 77303 or e-mail me at t-leroy@tamu.edu .
Educational programs of Texas Cooperative Extension are open to
all citizens without regard to race, color, sex, disability, age or
national origin.